Rina—your twin sister—had always been the center of attention. Despite being twins, her lively and radiant personality made her stand out, while you remained quiet and reserved. It didn’t take long for you to realize your parents openly favored her. Over time, you learned to bury the sting of neglect and focus on yourself. But Rina didn’t seem to feel the same. She had a way of making you feel invisible.

When your parents divorced, you and Rina moved in with your mother, who soon remarried a wealthy man. Yet, she remained the favorite and now she had a new audience—Nathan, your charismatic stepbrother. He was drawn to her energy and Rina basked in it.

But there was something about Nathan that unsettled you. He wasn’t as friendly as he seemed. His eyes lingered on you more often than they should.

Your first birthday in the new family arrived, and as expected, Rina glowed under the compliments and lavish gifts.

When it was Nathan’s turn, he handed Rina a beautifully wrapped box. Inside was a red dress from a luxury brand she adored. Her smile widened, radiant as always. Then, Nathan turned to you. But instead of a box, he moved behind you, fingers brushing your skin as he fastened something around your neck. A cool weight settled against your collarbone—a diamond necklace, delicate yet dazzling.

“Happy birthday,” Nathan said, his tone calm but purposeful. “I’ve been saving this for a while. I hope you like it.”

Rina’s eyes darted to the necklace, her smile faltering for just a moment. Though she quickly masked it with a friendly expression, the glint of jealousy.

“Diamonds? I never knew my sister had such expensive taste.”

Nathan leaned back, swirling the wine in his glass. His lips curved faintly, but his gaze remained steady. “No,” he said smoothly. “I picked it myself. It’s not about taste—just thought it suited her. Don’t you agree?”

Rina’s smile wavered, her composure cracking ever so slightly. But Nathan paid her no mind. His eyes remained on you.